![\"RV](\"https:\/\/www.storagecafe.com\/blog\/storagecafe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/44\/2020\/02\/RV2-resize-tiny.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
Want to give this RV lifestyle a try? Here are the most important things you need to know about buying an RV, about planning your trips throughout the country and about storing the vehicle while it\u2019s not in use.<\/p>\n
<\/span>Buying an RV for the First Time<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\nYou need to consider a few things when shopping around for an RV for the first time: the type and size of the vehicle, what features you actually need, and whether to get a new RV or a second-hand one.<\/p>\n
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<\/span>Motorhome or towable?<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nThere are two main types of RVs you can choose from: ones that can be driven as is, known as motorhomes, and the ones that need to be towed by another vehicle \u2013 fifth wheelers or travel trailers.<\/p>\n
Fifth wheelers and travel trailers don\u2019t have their own engine, which means they are cheaper, on average, than motorhomes. However, they need to be towed, and it takes a pretty powerful truck or SUV to do the job. If you don\u2019t own such a vehicle and you need to purchase one in order to use your towable RV, then you\u2019re not saving a whole lot.<\/p>\n
A new motorhome easily goes for $500,000 and up, if you\u2019re opting for state-of-the-art features. However, the average is between $80,000 and $125,000. If you\u2019re opting for second-hand motorhomes, you can safely slash those prices in half.<\/p>\n
![\"Interior](\"https:\/\/www.storagecafe.com\/blog\/storagecafe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/44\/2020\/02\/RV-interior-resized.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
The prices for new fifth wheelers hover around $50,000, and you can get used ones for around $20,000. However, you need a powerful pick-up truck in good condition to drive that fifth wheeler around, and that will cost you at least another $30,000 for a new one.<\/p>\n
A lot of people find driving a fifth wheeler or a trailer easier to manage than driving a motorhome. However, that\u2019s really up to personal preferences, so it\u2019s wiser to test both types of RVs before deciding on one.<\/p>\n
Convenience is another aspect to think about when choosing between the two types of RVs. People with motorhomes have access to all the facilities \u2013 kitchen, bathroom, entertainment \u2013 even during the drive. In the case of towable RVs, passengers are driving in a separate vehicle that needs to stop in order to let them use the RV\u2019s features.<\/p>\n
\n- \n
<\/span>Which size do you need?<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nRVs are divided into several classes, based on their size. Class A<\/strong> motor homes are the largest and, obviously, the most expensive ones, and can usually host between six and ten people. However, due to their size, they\u2019re not easy to maneuver and owners are pretty limited when it comes to where they can actually drive. They\u2019re also quite expensive \u2013 the price of a new one can easily go above $500,000.<\/p>\nClass B <\/strong>recreational vehicles are the smallest of all RVs and are also known as camper vans. They\u2019re built using a van as base, which makes them easily maneuverable. One will fit in most standard parking spaces and are ideal for adventurous owners interested in driving off road or to remote locations. Camper vans come equipped with sink, toilet and shower, and you can fit a small kitchen unit inside, but they have far less amenities and space than most other RVs.<\/p>\nClass C <\/strong>RVs are a combination between the two types described above: they\u2019re built upon a half truck frame and provide more space than class C ones, while still being a lot easier to drive than huge class A motorhomes.<\/p>\nTow-behind trailers <\/strong>and fifth wheelers<\/strong> come in various sizes, but they\u2019re usually pretty large, comparable to class A and class C motorhomes. Tow-behind trailers can connect to your vehicle via a traditional hitch, while fifth wheelers need a special connection integrated into your truck or SUV. Their main advantage is that they can be disconnected, and you can still use your car while camping for longer amounts of time. Both types are less expensive, on average, than class A and class C motorhomes.<\/p>\n![\"Towable](\"https:\/\/www.storagecafe.com\/blog\/storagecafe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/44\/2020\/02\/RV41.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
\n- \n
<\/span>New or used RV?<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nThe advantages of new RVs include a full warranty from the manufacturer and the possibility of choosing features, accessories and customizations, but they can be really expensive, and the insurance premium for a new one is quite taxing.<\/p>\n
Used RVs are a lot more affordable, and you can also change the interior layout and remodel them to your liking without worrying about the value going down. Insurance is a lot cheaper in the case of used RVs. However, damages are hard to assess when buying used RVs, as they might be hidden by features such as cabinets, paneling and so on, and manufacturer warranty is usually long gone.<\/p>\n
If you\u2019re a beginner to the whole RV lifestyle, maybe you shouldn\u2019t splurge on a brand-new one right from the start. Wait and see whether RVing works for you and for your family.<\/p>\n
<\/span>Planning Your RV Trips<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\nNow that you\u2019re the proud owner of a new RV \u2013 or a used one, depending on your budget and preferences \u2013 it\u2019s time to start preparing an amazing itinerary for your first trip. It\u2019s true that vacationing in your own RV allows a lot more flexibility than a standard trip where you must book everything in advance. However, careful planning is required and is the key to a successful, stress-free holiday.<\/p>\n
Once you have decided on a destination, do some thorough research of the itinerary. It\u2019s important to organize your trip in stages, in a way that allows you to enjoy every minute of it. Avoid long stretches of driving with no stops, as they are exhausting and boring, especially for families with children. Make sure there\u2019s something interesting to see or do on each day.<\/p>\n
From a more practical point of view, you also need to focus on camping sites that provide access to electricity, clean water and the sewer system. There are many RV trip planner apps you can use that contain maps, detailed information on campgrounds, costs and so on.<\/p>\n
![\"Driving](\"https:\/\/www.storagecafe.com\/blog\/storagecafe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/44\/2020\/02\/RV31.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
RV Trip Wizard<\/a> helps you calculate the cost of the entire trip, makes picking your campgrounds a lot easier and it also includes a lot of additional information such as free parking, pet hospitals, bike trails and golfing opportunities.<\/p>\nRV Life<\/a> helps you find campgrounds near your location and has integrated reviews of those sites. The app provides offline access to maps and directions to RV parks even if your WiFi is not working. You\u2019ll also find plenty of articles on RVing and trip ideas.<\/p>\nThese are just examples of RV route planner apps, but there are many others to choose from. You can also forgo using apps altogether and rely solely on your planning skills.<\/p>\n
<\/span>Where to Keep Your RV While Not in Use<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\nFinding a safe place to keep your RV can be quite a thorny issue. Most cities and towns don\u2019t allow street parking for RVs. Parking it in your driveway is pretty tricky too. It makes using your garage and your everyday car a lot more complicated, and there\u2019s even a possibility that your community\u2019s local rules prevent you from using the driveway for that purpose. In fact, unless you have a large property with plenty of space, parking your RV close to your home is nearly impossible.<\/p>\n
The safest, most cost-efficient solution for parking your RV while not in use is at a self-storage facility<\/a>. Many facilities provide outdoor parking spaces or large indoor units<\/a> for recreational vehicles. Outdoor spaces are very affordable, usually between $20 and $80 per month, depending on location and amenities. Indoor RV spaces can be standard or climate-controlled, which makes the cost vary significantly, from around $100 per month to more than $400 per month.<\/p>\n
<\/span>Motorhome or towable?<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nThere are two main types of RVs you can choose from: ones that can be driven as is, known as motorhomes, and the ones that need to be towed by another vehicle \u2013 fifth wheelers or travel trailers.<\/p>\n
Fifth wheelers and travel trailers don\u2019t have their own engine, which means they are cheaper, on average, than motorhomes. However, they need to be towed, and it takes a pretty powerful truck or SUV to do the job. If you don\u2019t own such a vehicle and you need to purchase one in order to use your towable RV, then you\u2019re not saving a whole lot.<\/p>\n
A new motorhome easily goes for $500,000 and up, if you\u2019re opting for state-of-the-art features. However, the average is between $80,000 and $125,000. If you\u2019re opting for second-hand motorhomes, you can safely slash those prices in half.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
The prices for new fifth wheelers hover around $50,000, and you can get used ones for around $20,000. However, you need a powerful pick-up truck in good condition to drive that fifth wheeler around, and that will cost you at least another $30,000 for a new one.<\/p>\n
A lot of people find driving a fifth wheeler or a trailer easier to manage than driving a motorhome. However, that\u2019s really up to personal preferences, so it\u2019s wiser to test both types of RVs before deciding on one.<\/p>\n
Convenience is another aspect to think about when choosing between the two types of RVs. People with motorhomes have access to all the facilities \u2013 kitchen, bathroom, entertainment \u2013 even during the drive. In the case of towable RVs, passengers are driving in a separate vehicle that needs to stop in order to let them use the RV\u2019s features.<\/p>\n
\n- \n
<\/span>Which size do you need?<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nRVs are divided into several classes, based on their size. Class A<\/strong> motor homes are the largest and, obviously, the most expensive ones, and can usually host between six and ten people. However, due to their size, they\u2019re not easy to maneuver and owners are pretty limited when it comes to where they can actually drive. They\u2019re also quite expensive \u2013 the price of a new one can easily go above $500,000.<\/p>\nClass B <\/strong>recreational vehicles are the smallest of all RVs and are also known as camper vans. They\u2019re built using a van as base, which makes them easily maneuverable. One will fit in most standard parking spaces and are ideal for adventurous owners interested in driving off road or to remote locations. Camper vans come equipped with sink, toilet and shower, and you can fit a small kitchen unit inside, but they have far less amenities and space than most other RVs.<\/p>\nClass C <\/strong>RVs are a combination between the two types described above: they\u2019re built upon a half truck frame and provide more space than class C ones, while still being a lot easier to drive than huge class A motorhomes.<\/p>\nTow-behind trailers <\/strong>and fifth wheelers<\/strong> come in various sizes, but they\u2019re usually pretty large, comparable to class A and class C motorhomes. Tow-behind trailers can connect to your vehicle via a traditional hitch, while fifth wheelers need a special connection integrated into your truck or SUV. Their main advantage is that they can be disconnected, and you can still use your car while camping for longer amounts of time. Both types are less expensive, on average, than class A and class C motorhomes.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
\n- \n
<\/span>New or used RV?<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nThe advantages of new RVs include a full warranty from the manufacturer and the possibility of choosing features, accessories and customizations, but they can be really expensive, and the insurance premium for a new one is quite taxing.<\/p>\n
Used RVs are a lot more affordable, and you can also change the interior layout and remodel them to your liking without worrying about the value going down. Insurance is a lot cheaper in the case of used RVs. However, damages are hard to assess when buying used RVs, as they might be hidden by features such as cabinets, paneling and so on, and manufacturer warranty is usually long gone.<\/p>\n
If you\u2019re a beginner to the whole RV lifestyle, maybe you shouldn\u2019t splurge on a brand-new one right from the start. Wait and see whether RVing works for you and for your family.<\/p>\n
<\/span>Planning Your RV Trips<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\nNow that you\u2019re the proud owner of a new RV \u2013 or a used one, depending on your budget and preferences \u2013 it\u2019s time to start preparing an amazing itinerary for your first trip. It\u2019s true that vacationing in your own RV allows a lot more flexibility than a standard trip where you must book everything in advance. However, careful planning is required and is the key to a successful, stress-free holiday.<\/p>\n
Once you have decided on a destination, do some thorough research of the itinerary. It\u2019s important to organize your trip in stages, in a way that allows you to enjoy every minute of it. Avoid long stretches of driving with no stops, as they are exhausting and boring, especially for families with children. Make sure there\u2019s something interesting to see or do on each day.<\/p>\n
From a more practical point of view, you also need to focus on camping sites that provide access to electricity, clean water and the sewer system. There are many RV trip planner apps you can use that contain maps, detailed information on campgrounds, costs and so on.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
RV Trip Wizard<\/a> helps you calculate the cost of the entire trip, makes picking your campgrounds a lot easier and it also includes a lot of additional information such as free parking, pet hospitals, bike trails and golfing opportunities.<\/p>\nRV Life<\/a> helps you find campgrounds near your location and has integrated reviews of those sites. The app provides offline access to maps and directions to RV parks even if your WiFi is not working. You\u2019ll also find plenty of articles on RVing and trip ideas.<\/p>\nThese are just examples of RV route planner apps, but there are many others to choose from. You can also forgo using apps altogether and rely solely on your planning skills.<\/p>\n
<\/span>Where to Keep Your RV While Not in Use<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\nFinding a safe place to keep your RV can be quite a thorny issue. Most cities and towns don\u2019t allow street parking for RVs. Parking it in your driveway is pretty tricky too. It makes using your garage and your everyday car a lot more complicated, and there\u2019s even a possibility that your community\u2019s local rules prevent you from using the driveway for that purpose. In fact, unless you have a large property with plenty of space, parking your RV close to your home is nearly impossible.<\/p>\n
The safest, most cost-efficient solution for parking your RV while not in use is at a self-storage facility<\/a>. Many facilities provide outdoor parking spaces or large indoor units<\/a> for recreational vehicles. Outdoor spaces are very affordable, usually between $20 and $80 per month, depending on location and amenities. Indoor RV spaces can be standard or climate-controlled, which makes the cost vary significantly, from around $100 per month to more than $400 per month.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n<\/span>Which size do you need?<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nRVs are divided into several classes, based on their size. Class A<\/strong> motor homes are the largest and, obviously, the most expensive ones, and can usually host between six and ten people. However, due to their size, they\u2019re not easy to maneuver and owners are pretty limited when it comes to where they can actually drive. They\u2019re also quite expensive \u2013 the price of a new one can easily go above $500,000.<\/p>\nClass B <\/strong>recreational vehicles are the smallest of all RVs and are also known as camper vans. They\u2019re built using a van as base, which makes them easily maneuverable. One will fit in most standard parking spaces and are ideal for adventurous owners interested in driving off road or to remote locations. Camper vans come equipped with sink, toilet and shower, and you can fit a small kitchen unit inside, but they have far less amenities and space than most other RVs.<\/p>\nClass C <\/strong>RVs are a combination between the two types described above: they\u2019re built upon a half truck frame and provide more space than class C ones, while still being a lot easier to drive than huge class A motorhomes.<\/p>\nTow-behind trailers <\/strong>and fifth wheelers<\/strong> come in various sizes, but they\u2019re usually pretty large, comparable to class A and class C motorhomes. Tow-behind trailers can connect to your vehicle via a traditional hitch, while fifth wheelers need a special connection integrated into your truck or SUV. Their main advantage is that they can be disconnected, and you can still use your car while camping for longer amounts of time. Both types are less expensive, on average, than class A and class C motorhomes.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
\n- \n
<\/span>New or used RV?<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nThe advantages of new RVs include a full warranty from the manufacturer and the possibility of choosing features, accessories and customizations, but they can be really expensive, and the insurance premium for a new one is quite taxing.<\/p>\n
Used RVs are a lot more affordable, and you can also change the interior layout and remodel them to your liking without worrying about the value going down. Insurance is a lot cheaper in the case of used RVs. However, damages are hard to assess when buying used RVs, as they might be hidden by features such as cabinets, paneling and so on, and manufacturer warranty is usually long gone.<\/p>\n
If you\u2019re a beginner to the whole RV lifestyle, maybe you shouldn\u2019t splurge on a brand-new one right from the start. Wait and see whether RVing works for you and for your family.<\/p>\n
<\/span>Planning Your RV Trips<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\nNow that you\u2019re the proud owner of a new RV \u2013 or a used one, depending on your budget and preferences \u2013 it\u2019s time to start preparing an amazing itinerary for your first trip. It\u2019s true that vacationing in your own RV allows a lot more flexibility than a standard trip where you must book everything in advance. However, careful planning is required and is the key to a successful, stress-free holiday.<\/p>\n
Once you have decided on a destination, do some thorough research of the itinerary. It\u2019s important to organize your trip in stages, in a way that allows you to enjoy every minute of it. Avoid long stretches of driving with no stops, as they are exhausting and boring, especially for families with children. Make sure there\u2019s something interesting to see or do on each day.<\/p>\n
From a more practical point of view, you also need to focus on camping sites that provide access to electricity, clean water and the sewer system. There are many RV trip planner apps you can use that contain maps, detailed information on campgrounds, costs and so on.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
RV Trip Wizard<\/a> helps you calculate the cost of the entire trip, makes picking your campgrounds a lot easier and it also includes a lot of additional information such as free parking, pet hospitals, bike trails and golfing opportunities.<\/p>\nRV Life<\/a> helps you find campgrounds near your location and has integrated reviews of those sites. The app provides offline access to maps and directions to RV parks even if your WiFi is not working. You\u2019ll also find plenty of articles on RVing and trip ideas.<\/p>\nThese are just examples of RV route planner apps, but there are many others to choose from. You can also forgo using apps altogether and rely solely on your planning skills.<\/p>\n
<\/span>Where to Keep Your RV While Not in Use<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\nFinding a safe place to keep your RV can be quite a thorny issue. Most cities and towns don\u2019t allow street parking for RVs. Parking it in your driveway is pretty tricky too. It makes using your garage and your everyday car a lot more complicated, and there\u2019s even a possibility that your community\u2019s local rules prevent you from using the driveway for that purpose. In fact, unless you have a large property with plenty of space, parking your RV close to your home is nearly impossible.<\/p>\n
The safest, most cost-efficient solution for parking your RV while not in use is at a self-storage facility<\/a>. Many facilities provide outdoor parking spaces or large indoor units<\/a> for recreational vehicles. Outdoor spaces are very affordable, usually between $20 and $80 per month, depending on location and amenities. Indoor RV spaces can be standard or climate-controlled, which makes the cost vary significantly, from around $100 per month to more than $400 per month.<\/p>\n
Class B <\/strong>recreational vehicles are the smallest of all RVs and are also known as camper vans. They\u2019re built using a van as base, which makes them easily maneuverable. One will fit in most standard parking spaces and are ideal for adventurous owners interested in driving off road or to remote locations. Camper vans come equipped with sink, toilet and shower, and you can fit a small kitchen unit inside, but they have far less amenities and space than most other RVs.<\/p>\n Class C <\/strong>RVs are a combination between the two types described above: they\u2019re built upon a half truck frame and provide more space than class C ones, while still being a lot easier to drive than huge class A motorhomes.<\/p>\n Tow-behind trailers <\/strong>and fifth wheelers<\/strong> come in various sizes, but they\u2019re usually pretty large, comparable to class A and class C motorhomes. Tow-behind trailers can connect to your vehicle via a traditional hitch, while fifth wheelers need a special connection integrated into your truck or SUV. Their main advantage is that they can be disconnected, and you can still use your car while camping for longer amounts of time. Both types are less expensive, on average, than class A and class C motorhomes.<\/p>\n The advantages of new RVs include a full warranty from the manufacturer and the possibility of choosing features, accessories and customizations, but they can be really expensive, and the insurance premium for a new one is quite taxing.<\/p>\n Used RVs are a lot more affordable, and you can also change the interior layout and remodel them to your liking without worrying about the value going down. Insurance is a lot cheaper in the case of used RVs. However, damages are hard to assess when buying used RVs, as they might be hidden by features such as cabinets, paneling and so on, and manufacturer warranty is usually long gone.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re a beginner to the whole RV lifestyle, maybe you shouldn\u2019t splurge on a brand-new one right from the start. Wait and see whether RVing works for you and for your family.<\/p>\n Now that you\u2019re the proud owner of a new RV \u2013 or a used one, depending on your budget and preferences \u2013 it\u2019s time to start preparing an amazing itinerary for your first trip. It\u2019s true that vacationing in your own RV allows a lot more flexibility than a standard trip where you must book everything in advance. However, careful planning is required and is the key to a successful, stress-free holiday.<\/p>\n Once you have decided on a destination, do some thorough research of the itinerary. It\u2019s important to organize your trip in stages, in a way that allows you to enjoy every minute of it. Avoid long stretches of driving with no stops, as they are exhausting and boring, especially for families with children. Make sure there\u2019s something interesting to see or do on each day.<\/p>\n From a more practical point of view, you also need to focus on camping sites that provide access to electricity, clean water and the sewer system. There are many RV trip planner apps you can use that contain maps, detailed information on campgrounds, costs and so on.<\/p>\n RV Trip Wizard<\/a> helps you calculate the cost of the entire trip, makes picking your campgrounds a lot easier and it also includes a lot of additional information such as free parking, pet hospitals, bike trails and golfing opportunities.<\/p>\n RV Life<\/a> helps you find campgrounds near your location and has integrated reviews of those sites. The app provides offline access to maps and directions to RV parks even if your WiFi is not working. You\u2019ll also find plenty of articles on RVing and trip ideas.<\/p>\n These are just examples of RV route planner apps, but there are many others to choose from. You can also forgo using apps altogether and rely solely on your planning skills.<\/p>\n Finding a safe place to keep your RV can be quite a thorny issue. Most cities and towns don\u2019t allow street parking for RVs. Parking it in your driveway is pretty tricky too. It makes using your garage and your everyday car a lot more complicated, and there\u2019s even a possibility that your community\u2019s local rules prevent you from using the driveway for that purpose. In fact, unless you have a large property with plenty of space, parking your RV close to your home is nearly impossible.<\/p>\n The safest, most cost-efficient solution for parking your RV while not in use is at a self-storage facility<\/a>. Many facilities provide outdoor parking spaces or large indoor units<\/a> for recreational vehicles. Outdoor spaces are very affordable, usually between $20 and $80 per month, depending on location and amenities. Indoor RV spaces can be standard or climate-controlled, which makes the cost vary significantly, from around $100 per month to more than $400 per month.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n\n
<\/span>New or used RV?<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
<\/span>Planning Your RV Trips<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n
<\/p>\n<\/span>Where to Keep Your RV While Not in Use<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n
![\"RV](\"https:\/\/www.storagecafe.com\/blog\/storagecafe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/44\/2020\/02\/RV11.jpg\")
<\/p>\n